Thursday of the Twenty-First Week in Ordinary Time
Grace and peace…
St. Paul opens his letter to the Corinthians with a blessing. Following typical Greek conventions for letters, he first lists both sender and recipient. He then addresses the Corinthians with a spirit of gratitude.
Paul’s salutation is pleasant. He describes the members of the Corinthian church as “enriched…in speech and knowledge,” and “not lacking in any spiritual gift.” He encourages them. He reminds them of God’s faithfulness.
However, this opening is one of the only tranquil parts of the letter. Paul established the church in Corinth. He identifies himself as the members’ spiritual father. Therefore, throughout his letter, he addresses each of the Corinthians’ spiritual and behavioral problems with great care. He admonishes, guides, and advises the church. Here, Paul is pastor.
Before the stormier passages of First Corinthians begin, Paul praises the maturing church for its growth and faith. Yet, he makes God the actor and originator of all they have achieved.
For example, he gives thanks for “the grace of God that has been given to you in Christ Jesus.” Here, God is the giver. Paul also writes that God “will also strengthen you to the end, so that you may be blameless.” Here, God is the one who strengthens. Further, the Apostle reminds the church that God called them “into the fellowship of His son.” Here, God initiates.
Even though the Corinthians have made great strides in their Christian faith, Paul subtly places God as the author and creator of such growth. This point will prove especially important as Paul addresses the Corinthians’ harmful pride in the next four chapters.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Source of All Being, Loving Parent, thank you for always initiating, strengthening, and giving me the grace and wisdom I need to journey with you. You enable me. You sustain me. You continuously reach out regardless of my moods, challenges, and weaknesses. Today I acknowledge you as the Source of my gifts and graces. With gratitude and humility, I open my palms toward heaven, ready to receive whatever you have to offer today, for you are always faithful, daily calling me into the fellowship of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
-Rachael Griggs